Urban Word Core Programs

For inquiries about our programs, email info@urbanwordnyc.org

Journal 2 Journey

In partnership with Hi-ARTS, Journal 2 Journey is a pre-professional, creative youth development program that presents poetry in a three-dimensional way by allowing youth to re-imagine and re-define their poetry as theatrical one-act plays. Participants gain valuable skills that can propel them into a future in the theater. This 15-week intensive culminates in a live public performance. (Open to Youth Ages 16-21)

NYC Youth Poet Laureate Program

Founded by Urban Word NYC, the New York City Youth Poet Laureate Program (NYC YPL) aims to identify young writers and leaders committed to creating change through civic engagement and literary excellence. From the application pool submitted here, we will identify 10 finalists, ages 15-19, to join in a PAID fellowship workshop series. Fellows will grow as writers and performers, in preparation for the commencement where the next NYC Youth Poet Laureate will be crowned.

THE 2025-2026 APPLICATION WINDOW IS NOW CLOSED

Black Girl Magic Fellowship

The Black Girl Magic Fellowship is more than a program—it’s a movement, a sanctuary, and a regenerative writing space where NYC/NJ-based Black girls and non-binary youth (ages 13-19) are empowered to own their voices, sharpen their pens, and rewrite the narrative. Curated by Urban Word Artistic Director, Mahogany L. Browne, this fellowship offers master classes that dive into the legacies of women artists and activists, past and present. This masterclass opportunity encourages the fellows to explore dynamic writing careers, develop a sustainable writing practice, and gain vital tools for college and self-care.

College Council

College Council is designed to engage college-age students (20-25 years old) and leverage the creativity and professional aspirations of this often overlooked demographic. The collective consists of youth who’ve demonstrated excellence in poetry and creative arts within Urban Word programming. Participants learn how to amplify their personal brands and promote their own projects, as well as serve as a youth-led media team, connecting their work to Urban Word’s overall mission.

[UNTITLED] Masterclass @ The Guggenheim

The Guggenheim Museum, an 87 year old cultural landmark, opens its galleries to the Urban Word community for this innovative masterclass series where poetry and visual art converge. Throughout this series, young writers are invited to view the museum’s current exhibits and collections to find poetic inspiration, while learning the fine art of ekphrastic poetry under the tutelage of an esteemed facilitator.

First Draft Open Mic

First Draft is a free open mic series, providing a safe space for artistic expression, experimentation and development across all genres. This uncensored poetry reading provides a platform for teen poets, spoken word artists, emcees, activists and scholars to share their powerful and important voices. Each event is curated by Urban Word youth and open to teens ages 14-21.